1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu via Km 104 | Full day Inca Trail

Name: 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu via Km 104 | Full day Inca Trail
Brand: Quechuas Expeditions
SKU: 1
Price: 440.00 USD
Availability: InStock

1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu via Km 104 | Short Inca Trail

Experience the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in just one day on the spectacular Km 104 route. This full-day adventure combines breathtaking Andean scenery, ancient Inca ruins, lush cloud-forest landscapes, and the unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).

Starting from Km 104, you’ll hike along a historic section of the Inca Trail, passing archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna before reaching the iconic Sun Gate. From here, enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu before continuing to Aguas Calientes for your overnight stay or onward journey.

The 1-Day Inca Trail via Km 104 is an excellent option for travelers who want to experience the Inca Trail without committing to a multi-day trek, while still enjoying one of the most scenic and rewarding approaches to Machu Picchu.

Cusco I Ollantaytambo I km 104 I Chachabamba I Wiñayhuayna I Sungate I Machu Picchu I Aguas Calientes I Cusco

Duration of the trip:

1 Day | Full Day

Total Distance

11 Miles /17.50 Km

Physical Level:

Intermediate

Altitude:

2900 m / 2900 ft

Type of Tour:

Trekking Nature & Culture

Group SIze:

02 Min - 08 Max

1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu via Km 104 – Overview

The 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu via Km 104 is a spectacular full-day trek designed for travelers who want to experience the iconic Inca Trail without spending several days hiking. The adventure begins at Km 104, where you cross the Urubamba River and start hiking toward the ancient Inca citadel.

Along the route, discover remarkable archaeological sites including Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, while enjoying dramatic views of the Andes, waterfalls, lush cloud forests, and surrounding mountains. After reaching Inti Punku (Sun Gate), you’ll have your first unforgettable panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

From the Sun Gate, you continue toward Machu Picchu for photos and views before descending to Aguas Calientes. This trek is ideal for active travelers looking for a shorter alternative to the traditional 4-Day Inca Trail while still experiencing an authentic section of the historic Inca Trail.

What to Expect on the 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Get ready for an unforgettable full-day adventure combining Inca history, spectacular mountain scenery, and the magic of Machu Picchu. The Km 104 route offers a rewarding trekking experience without requiring several days on the trail.

Early Morning Start: Begin your adventure early from Aguas Calientes, traveling by train to Km 104, the starting point of your trek.
Historic Inca Trail: Hike along an original section of the famous Inca Trail surrounded by lush vegetation and impressive Andean landscapes.
Ancient Inca Sites: Explore fascinating archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, learning about their historical and cultural importance from your professional guide.
Scenic Mountain Views: Enjoy changing landscapes as you trek through cloud forest, waterfalls, mountains, and spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley.
Inti Punku – Sun Gate: Reach the iconic Sun Gate, where you’ll enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from above.
Machu Picchu Experience: Continue toward the famous citadel and take time to admire its incredible setting before descending to Aguas Calientes.
A Rewarding Challenge: Expect approximately 10–12 km (6–7.5 miles) of hiking, with several uphill and downhill sections. A good level of fitness is recommended.
Professional Guidance: Your knowledgeable guide will accompany you throughout the trek, providing information about the Inca civilization, archaeological sites, and local traditions.
A Full-Day Adventure: This is an active and rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy one of the most famous sections of the Inca Trail in a single day.

1 Day Short Inca Trail Trip Details:

TOUR NAME: 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu via Km 104 – Full Day
DURATION: 1 Day
100% LOCAL COMPANY: fully licensed Inca Trail Tour Operator, Highly Recommended! Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor & Youtube what our Passengers say about us
ROUTE: Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu
TREK DISTANCE: Approximately 10–12 km (6–7.5 miles)
DIFFICULTY: Moderate to Challenging
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: Approximately 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
STARTING POINT: Km 104
ENDING POINT: Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) – Cusco
TREKKING TIME: Approximately 6–7 hours
HIGHLIGHTS: Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Cloud Forest, Waterfalls, Inti Punku (Sun Gate), and Machu Picchu
SERVICE: Private or Small-Group Service
GUIDE: Professional English-Speaking Guide
BEST SEASON: March to December
FEBRUARY: The Inca Trail is closed annually for maintenance
PERMITS: Inca Trail permits are required and subject to availability
MACHU PICCHU ENTRY: Included according to the selected circuit and availability
MEALS: Lunch Box and/or Meals according to the confirmed itinerary
TRAIN: Tourist Expedition Train Round trip or equivalent service, according to availability
ACCOMMODATION: Not included unless an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes is added
FITNESS LEVEL: Good physical condition is recommended
RECOMMENDED ACCLIMATIZATION: At least 1–2 days in Cusco before the trek
PASSPORT: Original passport is required for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entry

1 Day Short Inca Trail Highlights

1-Day Inca Trail Adventure: Experience one of the most iconic sections of the Inca Trail in a single day.
Km 104 Starting Point: Begin your trek at the famous Km 104 trailhead after crossing the Urubamba River.
Chachabamba Archaeological Site: Discover this impressive ancient Inca ceremonial and religious site.
Wiñay Wayna: Explore one of the most spectacular archaeological complexes along the Inca Trail.
Beautiful Cloud Forest: Trek through lush vegetation, waterfalls, and diverse Andean landscapes.
Historic Inca Trail: Walk along an original section of the ancient trail leading toward Machu Picchu.
Inti Punku (Sun Gate): Reach the iconic Sun Gate and enjoy your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
First View of Machu Picchu: Capture unforgettable photographs of the citadel from the classic approach.
Machu Picchu Guided Visit: Explore the archaeological sanctuary with a professional guide and learn about its history and significance.
Perfect Short Trek Option: Ideal for travelers who want to experience the Inca Trail without committing to a 4-day trek.

DAY 1
Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco+

Your 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 4:00 a.m. We travel by private transportation to Ollantaytambo, where we board the train toward Km 104, the official starting point of our trek.

After disembarking at Km 104, we cross the Urubamba River and begin hiking along an authentic section of the historic Inca Trail. The trail gradually ascends through the spectacular Andean cloud forest, offering impressive views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife.

Our first major archaeological attraction is Chachabamba, an ancient Inca ceremonial site surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. From here, we continue uphill toward Wiñay Wayna, one of the most remarkable archaeological complexes on the Inca Trail. The trail includes a combination of stone-paved paths, stairways, and scenic viewpoints.

After exploring Wiñay Wayna, we take a break to enjoy our box lunch before continuing toward Machu Picchu. As we hike deeper into the cloud forest, keep an eye out for native orchids, colorful flowers, hummingbirds, and other Andean wildlife. With luck, you may even spot a viscacha or other native species.

We then continue along the original Inca Trail toward Inti Punku (Sun Gate). Reaching this historic gateway is one of the most rewarding moments of the trek, as it provides our first spectacular panoramic view of Machu Picchu surrounded by the dramatic Andes Mountains.

From Inti Punku, we continue downhill for approximately 45 minutes toward the Machu Picchu archaeological complex. Upon arrival, we enjoy time at the designated viewpoints for photographs and admire the incredible setting of the ancient citadel.

Our Machu Picchu visit will follow the circuit assigned and available with the official entrance ticket. Depending on availability and the ticket purchased, the visit may include the panoramic viewpoints and/or the lower archaeological sector. Your professional guide will explain the history, architecture, and cultural significance of this extraordinary Inca sanctuary.

After the visit, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for dinner before boarding the evening train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. We expect to arrive at your hotel at approximately 10:00 p.m.

Total Distance: Approximately 10–12 km / 6.2–7.5 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 695 m / 2,280 ft
Elevation Loss: Approximately 391 m / 1,283 ft
Trailhead Altitude: Approximately 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
Highest Altitude: Approximately 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
Trekking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours
Highlights: Km 104, Chachabamba, Original Inca Trail, Wiñay Wayna, Cloud Forest, Inti Punku, and Machu Picchu
Weather: Generally warm and humid, with cooler conditions at higher elevations
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

1 day Inca Trail Includes

Private Tourist Transportation for all our Quechua Expeditions groups from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and from Ollantaytambo to your accommodation in Cusco.
EXPEDITIONS TRAIN TICKET ROUND TRIP:
Tourist train in Expeditions Service from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 (starting point of the trek) and from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
DOWNHILL BUS TICKET
CONSETTUR bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
PROFESSIONAL GUIDES:
Professional bilingual guide (English-Spanish) who will accompany you on your tour.
All our guides work only for us. All of them speak fluent English, and in case of more than 8 passengers, your group will have a second guide.
MEALS:
1 box lunch.
Our vegetarian or gluten free menu has no additional cost (please let us know at the time of booking).
EMERGENCY FIRST AID KIT
– First aid kit (our guide will have access to one while accompanying you). All our guides receive annual first aid training.
– Emergency oxygen bottle (our guide will have access to one during the trek on the first day of your tour).
BRIEFING:
– For all our treks, this orientation is one day before at 17:00 in our main office located in Cusco city at Pasaje Pumacchupan 196, Hotel Maria Bonita.

NOT INCLUDED:

Breakfast and Dinner.
Propinas (optional)
Travel and health insurance (bring copies with you, please): Quechuas Expeditions strongly recommends obtaining trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, lost and delayed luggage, emergency medical evacuation insurance, and emergency medical expenses insurance.

DISCOUNTS (to apply discounts. Please send us an email at info@quechuasexpeditions.com)

UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD (Students must be below 25 years) : US$30. Please send us a a scanned copy of the student card at the time of booking.
Under 17 years old: US$30 Please send us a copy of passport at the time of booking.
Under 12 years old: US$30 Please send us a copy of passport at the time of booking.
Group of 5 or more: US$20 per person. All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.

UPGRADES:

Huaynapicchu Mountain (Based on Availability): US$90 Based on Availability (Let us at the time of booking)
MachuPicchu Mountain (Based on Availability): US$90 Based on Availability (Let us at the time of booking)
Upgrade to Vistadome Train (First Class Train) (Includes Private Transportation From Ollantaytambo to Cusco) USUS$70
Extra Night in Aguas Calientes US$30 per person (Twin Bed room, 3 Beds room & 4 Beds Room with Private shower & Bathroom)
A night in Cusco at our Quechuas Guesthouse: from US$20 per person / Twin Bed room (Before we do the tour/trek or after the tour/trek)

RENTALS

Goose Down sleeping bag (Mummy style): US$30 for the entire trip
(Black Dimond) Walking Poles Rubber Tips Included: US$20 for the entire trip
Day Pack 20 – 30 liters (Rain cover included): US$15 for the entire trip

ADITIONAL INFO:

BRIEFING for all our treks is a Night before we do the trek at 6:30pm in our office, But if you want us to come to your Hotel let us know in advance.(You will get a chance to meet you guide and as well as to give you your duffel bags)
STORAGE Most Hotels have storage where you can leave the rest of your stuff while you hike to Machupicchu, But if they dont have a place you can leave your stuff in our storage with no extra cost. (Let us know at the time of briefing)

We need at least 02 of you and Leave any day you suit. All Departures 100% Guaranteed If You’re Booked, You are Going !!! To Confirm and Secure the Inca Trail Permits. Send us the filled out booking form as well as a deposit of 30% and you are ready to go…

1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (Prices for 2026 – 2027)

Availability (subject to availability): Daily departures All departures are 100% guaranteed. If you have booked, you go, we will not cancel your trip!!!!

How to book?
Send us all your personal information, as well as a first deposit of USD 200.00, and the final balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.

Group Service: Price per person: US$440.00
You will be accompanied in a group formed by people from different countries/nationalities: From 4 people up to 8 people (maximum)

Private service: Price per person: US $540
Recommended for honeymooners, families with children, and groups of friends (minimum two people).

If you are a group of 02, we leave (no matter if you have paid as a group service). We NEVER pass our people on to another operator, as most agencies do here in Cusco.

What you need to bring on 1 day Inca Trail:

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

Original Passport: Required for the Inca Trail checkpoint and Machu Picchu entrance.
Comfortable Hiking Shoes: Choose lightweight, well-broken-in shoes with good traction.
Small Daypack: Bring a comfortable backpack for your personal essentials.
Water: Carry at least 1.5–2 liters of water. A reusable water bottle or hydration system is recommended.
Rain Jacket or Poncho: Weather in the cloud forest can change quickly, even during the dry season.
Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap.
Light Layers: Temperatures can vary throughout the day, so comfortable, breathable layers are ideal.
Insect Repellent: Recommended, especially in the warmer and more humid sections of the trail.
Personal Medications: Bring any medication you regularly require.
Basic Personal Items: Tissues, hand sanitizer, and a small amount of personal toiletries.
Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, nuts, fruit, or other lightweight snacks for the trek.
Camera or Smartphone: For capturing the spectacular landscapes, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku, and Machu Picchu.
Cash in Peruvian Soles: Useful for drinks, snacks, souvenirs, or other personal expenses in Aguas Calientes.
Extra T-Shirt: Helpful after several hours of hiking, particularly during warm and humid conditions.
Swimwear: Optional if you plan to use the hot springs in Aguas Calientes after the trek.

Frequently Asked Questions – 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu via Km 104

1. Is the 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu difficult?

The trek is considered moderate to challenging. It includes steep sections, Inca stone stairways, and several uphill and downhill sections. A good level of fitness and previous hiking experience are recommended.

2. How long is the 1-Day Inca Trail?

The Km 104 route is approximately 10–12 km (6–7.5 miles), depending on the exact route and access conditions.

3. What time does the 1-Day Inca Trail start?

The day typically begins around 4:00 a.m. in Cusco, allowing enough time to travel to Ollantaytambo and board the train to Km 104.

4. Where does the 1-Day Inca Trail start?

The trek starts at Km 104, which is reached by train from Ollantaytambo or another designated train station.

5. What archaeological sites will I visit?

The main archaeological highlights include Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku (Sun Gate), and Machu Picchu.

6. Will I see Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate?

Yes. One of the highlights of the trek is reaching Inti Punku, where you can enjoy your first spectacular panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

7. Can I enter Machu Picchu after completing the Inca Trail?

Yes. The 1-Day Inca Trail includes access to Machu Picchu according to the official entrance ticket and circuit assigned, subject to availability.

8. Which Machu Picchu circuit is included?

The circuit depends on the official ticket availability and the route selected at the time of booking. We recommend confirming the available circuit before finalizing your reservation.

9. Is the Inca Trail permit included?

Yes, when booking a complete tour package, the Inca Trail permit is included. Permits are limited and subject to availability, so early booking is strongly recommended.

10. How far in advance should I book the 1-Day Inca Trail?

We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel months, because Inca Trail permits are limited and can sell out well in advance.

11. Do I need my passport for the trek?

Yes. You must bring your original passport, and the details must match the information used for your Inca Trail and Machu Picchu reservations.

12. What should I bring for the 1-Day Inca Trail?

Bring a small daypack, comfortable hiking shoes, water, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, rain protection, insect repellent, snacks, personal medication, and your original passport.

13. Is lunch included?

A box lunch is normally provided during the trek, according to the confirmed tour package. We recommend bringing additional snacks and sufficient water.

14. Is the 1-Day Inca Trail suitable for beginners?

Yes, it can be suitable for active beginners who are comfortable with a full day of hiking. However, the route includes steep sections and many stone steps, so good physical preparation is important.

15. Do I need to acclimatize before the trek?

Yes. We strongly recommend spending at least 1–2 days in Cusco or another high-altitude destination before starting the trek to allow your body to adjust to the elevation.

16. What is the highest point on the 1-Day Inca Trail?

The route reaches approximately 2,720 m (8,924 ft), although the exact altitude varies depending on the route and location measured.

17. What is the best time of year to do the 1-Day Inca Trail?

The best period is generally April to October, during the drier season. However, the Inca Trail can be experienced from March through January, depending on weather and permit availability. February is the annual closure period for maintenance.

18. What happens if it rains during the trek?

The trek operates in different weather conditions, and rain is possible, particularly in the cloud forest. Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho and protect your backpack and electronic equipment.

19. Can I take the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes?

Yes. After your Machu Picchu visit, you can take the shuttle bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. Bus tickets and transportation arrangements should follow your confirmed itinerary.

20. Can I return to Cusco on the same day?

Yes. The 1-Day Inca Trail can be arranged as a full-day experience with an evening train back toward Ollantaytambo, followed by private transportation to Cusco. The exact return time depends on train and Machu Picchu ticket availability.

Book now with us

Sara D

10/10 Experience - Would Recommend! We had an amazing time on the Salkantay 5 Day Trek. Before the trip started, Quechuas had great communication and was very accommodating to our travel schedule, including adjusting our briefing time with our guide.The skydome accomodations were great (all fairly spacious, with exception of night 2, which was fine as we didn’t spend much time there), the food was delicious (a great variety and always more than enough to go around) and the trek itself was beautiful. Our guide Steven, as well as second guide Jorge, were very patient, knowledgeable and kind to us and the others in our group - not only did we get to see incredible scenery but we also learned a lot about the local landscape and culture.We rented sleeping bags, which we would highly recommend. We brought our own hiking poles but would recommend renting if you don’t bring your own.Overall, an amazing experience and we would highly recommend this company.

Matthew W

Seamless and Supportive Inca Trail Experience – Highly Recommend We recently completed the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek with Quechuas Expeditions in June 2025, and overall had a fantastic experience that struck the perfect balance between physical challenge and logistical ease.Our guide, Fernando (“Nando”), was outstanding—passionate, deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, and highly supportive throughout. He kept our group motivated and informed, and managed different paces and needs with professionalism and care. His English was great, and he always made time to answer questions or share interesting stories along the way.The porter and chef team were phenomenal. Every meal was different, delicious, and plentiful—we were never hungry, and dietary needs (including vegan and vegetarian) were handled without issue. They even baked a custom cake on the trail for a couple’s anniversary, which speaks volumes about their care and capability. The porters themselves were friendly, warm, and constantly going above and beyond to support us.Quechuas provided tents, sleeping bags, a toilet tent, and hot water for face washing each morning, plus coca tea as a wake-up touch. The duffel service was useful, though we did find the weight limits a bit tighter than expected once you factor in the sleeping bag. In the end, we paid for an extra porter—which was easy to arrange but worth noting for those planning their packing. One thing we didn’t know in advance: the porter bags aren’t waterproof, so future trekkers may want to use dry bags or line the inside with plastic.Another small consideration: due to how campsites are assigned (by the government, not the tour company), some days ended up being longer than the traditional day-by-day breakdown you might read online. While not Quechuas’ fault, for myself, as much heads-up as possible would’ve helped with my own mental preparation.All said, Quechuas Expeditions delivered where it mattered most. The logistics were smooth, the staff was superb, and their support allowed us to focus on enjoying the trail and the breathtaking views without worrying about the rest. This is a company that knows what it’s doing.Would I recommend them? Absolutely—whether you’re a first-time trekker or experienced hiker, they make an unforgettable journey that much more seamless and enjoyable. If I ever do this again, I would book with them without question, and if possible, request the exact same team. Thank you Fernando and team for a trip of a lifetime and memories that will stay with me forever 🙏

Arianna O

Amazing trip on the Inca Trail with Quechuas Expeditions I never imagined that the Inca Trail could be so transformative. My partner and I decided to do the classic 4-day trek with Quechuas Expeditions and, honestly, it exceeded all our expectations. From the very first moment we felt very welcome. The service was impeccable, they were always attentive to our needs, solving all our doubts before and during the trek.The hike was not easy, but the views, the fresh mountain air and the energy of the group kept us going without thinking about how tiring it was. The meals at the campsites surprised us pleasantly, we really did not expect so much variety and flavor in the middle of the mountain. And the end, reaching Machu Picchu through the sun gate (Inti Punku) was simply magical, there are no words to describe that moment. It is definitely a unique experience that connects you with the history, culture and nature of Peru. Thank you Quechuas Expeditions for making this trip so special!

naomiammar

Hardest challenge of my life but worth it One of the hardest things I have ever done (definitely underestimate the difficulty level), and I don’t know if I would have made it if it wasn’t for our awesome guide Frenando and all the amazing staff we had. What a fantastic group of people. The porters are so hard working, it’s so humbling. The chef Taco was fantastic! I am vegan and he made me the most amazing food the entire time. I couldn’t believe it. And then our guide Fernando topped it all. Knowledgeable, professional yet fun, very personable, very patient (we were slow!) and very encouraging. If you are considering taking on this challenge, I highly recommend Quechua’s Expeditions and if you can request Fernando. E sure to do so. He’s been doing this for 19yrs!

cade c

Awesome trek We really enjoyed our trip. It was challenging and also rewarding. Beautiful views and even better food. I can’t rave enough about our cook Santiago! Food was unbelievable. Jose did a fantastic job leading us along the way. He did a good job of explaining what we are seeing! Looking for a physical challenge with beautiful views this is the trek for you.

Lola U

Demanding, enriching and unforgettable thanks to the human team I will always be grateful to the rich food and attentions of Santiago, the cook, the professionalism and good advice of José, the guide, the kindness of the helpers, who have made it possible to improve the experience.

Julia C.

Amazing trek, amazing guide and staff The Salkantay Trek was absolutely stunning, domes and the views were great with hot water available. What the trek made very special was our guide Nildo. Also, the chef Julian, horseman and second guide were incredible too. Nildo was knowledgeable, caring and passionate about everything he shared. I cannot imagine a better guide :-) Everything was very well organized.

Emelie A

Hike of a lifetime! We had the most amazing time! The different sceneries along the trek are just unbelievable and although being two fairly unfit persons we could enjoy it all the way. Fernando and Steven are terrific guides making sure we were all comfortable and happy at all times. The food and accommodations along the way were also a lot more luxurious than what we’d expected. Would 100% recommend this to anyone who’s up for a hike!!

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